Arts & the Military Initiative

The 2026 Arts & The Military Mini Grants program is a funding opportunity offered by New Mexico Arts to support the development and expansion of arts-based programming for military-connected populations across the state. Rooted in New Mexico Arts' broader mission to center the arts in the lives of all New Mexicans, the initiative seeks to empower, equip, and energize organizations that are responsive to the needs and experiences of veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, their families, and caregivers. The program aims to achieve two primary goals: first, to create new or expanded opportunities for meaningful engagement with the arts among military-connected individuals; and second, to build capacity within New Mexico-based organizations to deliver high-quality, sustainable arts programs for these populations. Mini grants are particularly well-suited for organizations launching new programs or scaling existing efforts that serve veterans and active-duty communities. Applicants may request a fixed grant amount of $2,500. Matching funds are not required, though applicants may choose to supplement the budget with additional organizational resources. All projects must be completed between January 2026 and June 15, 2026, and funds may be used for artistic, administrative, and technical fees; contracted consultants; consumable supplies; marketing; rental fees; and travel expenses. Projects must serve military-connected audiences within New Mexico and may include classes, workshops, lectures, or virtual programming. Capacity-building projects such as staff training and program development are also eligible. Organizations must be registered New Mexico nonprofits, units of government, public educational institutions, or tribal entities. They must provide services within New Mexico and may already receive funding through other New Mexico Arts grant programs. New applicants or those who have not previously received funding through this mini grant program must submit their applications for advance review by September 22, 2025. Final applications are due by November 7, 2025, at 5 PM MST. Selected applicants will be notified of awards by December 2, 2025. Applications must include a project overview, description of goals, target audience, artist and partner details, budget, and evaluation strategy. All funded organizations must submit a final report and invoice by June 15, 2026. The program contact is Kevin Lenkner, Arts & The Military Coordinator, reachable at kevin.lenkner@dca.nm.gov or 505-412-5791.

Advance Review is required for new applicants or organizations that were not funded in prior cycles. Submit a 2-page proposal outlining goals, audience, key personnel, budget, and timeline. Include New Mexico W-9.